[bwindrope]

After posting my question above, I've been rooting around online and found maybe I need to go away from the reefing hook system I've got, the gooseneck bolt/hook combination. I've seen that it is possible to replace my reef hook bolt with a standard bolt, thus not risking bending or breaking my gooseneck connection bolt, and to use a separate U shaped S hook attached with line to the normal tack pin.

I suppose this means I'd have a hook and line flopping around my gooseneck all the time, but if it gives me the right sail shape and is strong, then maybe that is my answer. I still welcome advice, I just wanted to toss this idea out for rejection:-)

Thanks